When we started this blog in Sept. 2015, it was our intention to share Paul’s experiences with alternative prostate cancer treatment (specifically transurethral hyperthermia.) When initially researching the procedure, we were frustrated with the limited information we could find on the treatment results. If this treatment was helping (or possibly curing prostate cancer), where were the success stories? We were determined to share our experience openly so that they next person considering this treatment would have the full benefit of what we learned.

Three years later, having determined that the alternative treatment was not curative, Paul will be undergoing traditional treatment in the U.S.

This blog continues to get traffic and we often hear from men who are struggling with treatment decisions. Many of the questions we receive were answered in earlier posts, but we certainly don’t expect anyone to read ALL of our previous posts (despite how riveting they are – lol.)

So, here’s a shortcut to the highlights of the past three years:

About us. Here’s the background on the two of us and why we decided to undertake this project.

Treatment in Germany. There is a daily recap of the five days we spent at the Marinus Clinic in Germany starting HERE and ending HERE. There is also a page of photos of the transurethral hyperthermia equipment as well as tips for anyone considering visiting the Marinus Clinic.

Our move to Denver, CO and decision to get a mapping biopsy to determine if the cancer had gotten worse. This post also includes our (differing) conclusions about the ultimate results of the treatment in Germany.

The mapping biopsy results showing that Paul’s Gleason score was higher than originally reported, as well the fact that the cancer has spread to his seminal vesicle. His cancer was re-classified as stage 3 and we began looking at both surgical and radiation treatment options.

After his final treatment, we met with Dr. Pugh to discuss what happens next. He needs to stay on the ADT hormone block until at least July 2019. So he gets another three-month shot in January and one more in April.

They’ll check his PSA and testosterone levels every few months but we’re playing the looooong game here. The ADT therapy (Lupron) will artificially depress his PSA levels so it won’t be possible to get a truly accurate reading until late 2019 (after we’ve allowed a long period of time for the drug to completely dissipate and his testosterone levels to bounce back.) That said, Dr. Pugh said we’re looking for his PSA to be very low (practically zero) and then to not rise by more than a few numbers once his ADT therapy is finished. IF his PSA rises over time, it means that there is an “issue” and he’ll need additional diagnostics to determine the cause.

But for now, we are focusing on the positive. It’s gonna be close to a year before we have any more definitive news so we are assuming that Paul is now cancer free and we are getting on with our lives. If this experience has taught us anything it is not to postpone joy. We’re looking forward to the big things (our wedding/honeymoon, new grandchild, getting a puppy) and also to the small day-to-day rhythm of our daily lives (work, gym, movies, etc.) Life is good. Actually, it’s GREAT.